Westminster Apple Tree Ranked Third in Colorado
A historic 140-year-old tree remains a centerpiece of the city's open space after its long survival.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Botany
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A 140-year-old tree in Westminster holds the official rank of the third-largest apple tree in Colorado. Planted in 1886 by the Semper family, the specimen was part of an original Sops of Wine apple orchard.
Why it matters
The tree provides a living link to the regions agricultural history and the early homesteading efforts of the Semper family. Experts believe the plant will continue to thrive for decades to come, preserving a rare remnant of the area's original fruit cultivation.
The tree is 140 years old and is expected to survive for another 40 to 50 years. It stands as the third-largest apple tree documented in the state of Colorado.
The players
Christopher Edmunds
He is the city storyteller who verified the historical significance and ranking of the tree.
Semper family
They were the early settlers who established the original orchard where the tree is located.
The details
City storyteller Christopher Edmunds verified the historical significance of the tree through extensive investigation. Visitors can reach the trunk by navigating a path located within the surrounding shrubs of the Westminster open space.
Timeline
The tree was planted 140 years ago by the Semper family.
The Big Picture
The tree serves as a living record of the Sops of Wine apple variety and its historical cultivation in the region. This specimen follows a pattern set by conservation efforts to maintain heirloom orchard stock within modern urban landscapes.
The tree offers residents a tangible connection to the region's agricultural past during visits to the local open space. Preserving such specimens helps maintain local biodiversity and historical awareness for the community.
The takeaway
This tree serves as a reminder of the long-term resilience of heritage fruit varieties in the Colorado climate. Residents can visit the site to appreciate the intersection of local history and botanical longevity.
Further reading
Learn more about local vegetation and preservation efforts at Westminster Botany.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Krystal 93 - Summit County Local Radio.
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